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Our prayers, along with those of countless stifled businessmen, have finally been answered: A bordello is about to open in the Back Bay. As we mentioned last week, Storyville was once a legendary Boston speak-easy that hosted Billie Holiday and other jazz icons; it was named after a red light district in New Orleans. Now we've learned that its much-anticipated reincarnation will debut on Friday (as ever, these things can always change last-minute, but that's the latest).

Today we glimpsed the cocktail menu for the lounge/club/restaurant, which is a choose-your-own-adventure tiki-fest with a mix of classics and Bayou libations, executed by the very capable "English Bill" Codman. (You choose the spirit, then let your friendly bartender do the rest.) Want some highlights? Here they are.

Bordello Room

Old World, Old School, Old Techniques

SoursOne of the Fathers of the modern cocktail. Fresh squeezed lemon juice and sugar.
You choose your poison: Gin, Whiskey, Vodka, Amaretto or something else

Smashes“Grab that stick and muddle Sally”. Make that bartender work for the money.
Fresh picked mint, lemon and sugar muddled and served over crushed ice. Make it yours with: Whiskey, Gin, Vodka, Grand Marnier, Chartreuse or a new twist

Stories and Libations
The Red Dress - A classic New Orleans style Raspberry gastrique with Champagne
Sazerac - The French Quarter original. Rye, Sugar and Paychauds.
Lady Day - Gin, Campari, Passion Fruit and Honey
The Lower East Side - A light twist on the Manhattan with Aperol and Punt E Mas
Suffering Bastard - A mix of Gin, Brandy and spicy sparkling ginger

Storyville provides the inspiration, you choose the spirit:The English GardenEnglish cucumbers, fresh picked mint and gently squeezed lime. Served in a tall glass with sparkling water.
Vodka, Gin or Tequila